Jacob Peed, founder of AviNation Magazine, talks to Frontier Forum about one big question: how do we build the next generation of aviation talent—pilots, mechanics, engineers, and beyond?
Jacob shares his unique path from a Midwest publishing family to the aviation world, flying right seat as a kid in everything from a Cessna 421 to King Airs, then later helping shape aviation media before launching AviNation with a clear mission: track, educate, and empower youth in aviation.
This conversation dives into:
- Why visibility and PR matter just as much as funding for youth aviation programs
- The story of the Lakeland Aero Club and how student storytelling unlocked real support
- How AviNation distributes 15,000 print copies quarterly across 3,500+ aviation locations plus schools and nonprofits
- Real, practical pathways: Part 107 drones, A&P mechanic routes, and what’s coming with air taxis and advanced mobility
- Jacob’s advice to students (and career pivoters): follow your passion, pay yourself first, and do every job well
If you’re a parent, mentor, educator, student, or anyone curious about where aviation is headed, this episode is a blueprint for the future workforce and the community needed to power it.
